USPS turns to GE for trailers

Under a new six-year contract, the Trailer Fleet Services division of GE Equipment Services will provide the U.S. Post Office with over 4,750 dry van trailers to move mail between distribution centers and local post offices. The contract calls for all of the Postal System trailers to be fitted with GE's VeriWise untethered tracking system.

Valued at approximately $100 million, the six-year contract also includes preventive and emergency maintenance services for the trailers, which will include 45-, 48- and 53-ft. dry vans with roll-up doors, translucent roofs and spring-ride suspension.

The GE trailer group has also announced a $10-million investment in new technology, mechanic training and business process improvements for its 100 North American branch locations. The investment includes installation of local wireless networks and new handheld devices from Symbol Technology that allow mechanics to capture and transmit repair data and other information in real-time.

GE is also launching a national recruiting program for qualified trailer mechanics and creating the GE Trailer Mechanic University to support on-going training efforts.